ABUJA, Nigeria – A surprising political development has emerged from Nigeria, as rumours swirl about a potential alliance between Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai for a run at the presidency in 2027.
These speculations gained momentum following a post by @PIDOMNigeria, a social media account on X known for its support of Peter Obi and credibility in political insights.
According to the post, unnamed power brokers are contemplating this partnership as a strategic move to challenge the incumbent administration.
The post outlined that Obi, with his widespread popularity and political strength in the South-East (SE), South-West (SW), South-South (SS), and some North Central states, requires a robust figure to introduce and bolster his candidacy in the core Northern states, identified by the acronym KKK (Kano, Kaduna, Katsina).
In Nigeria's politics, there are unseen power brokers. They check the strength and weaknesses of candidates before forming alliance.
From a very reliable source as i was informed, the Obi and El-Rufai combo that is being proposed, is the only formidable force that can flush… pic.twitter.com/idUaBQatLB— 99% OPPRESSED. (@PIDOMNIGERIA) April 6, 2024
The rationale behind this proposed alliance hinges on several factors. Firstly, the need for a hard-line Muslim with substantial political influence to endorse Obi in the Northern regions.
Secondly, someone who could balance regional trust issues and, lastly, a candidate capable of succeeding Obi, with assurances of continued political support.
Nasir El-Rufai is considered to fit this bill perfectly, positioning him as a likely vice-presidential candidate under a different political party banner, yet to be disclosed.
The final decision rests on the two men involved accepting or rejecting this proposal.
This rumoured alliance, however, has stirred mixed reactions among Peter Obi’s staunch followers, affectionately known as Obidients.
Some express concerns that aligning with El-Rufai could compromise Obi’s acceptance in the SE and SS regions, potentially benefiting the current administration.
Others view the potential pairing with scepticism, citing El-Rufai’s controversial political history, particularly in the Middle Belt.
They should not mess with Igbo sentiments, El -Rufai can't dent Obi's acceptability in SE and SS, they will just relax in their homes on election day and Tinubu will have his way.
— Nkirukamma (@SabinaNkiru) April 6, 2024
Obviously, this plan is de@d on arrival. Elrufai can never be trusted to carry out any plan.
— The Emperor (@i_jandor) April 6, 2024
“ITS BEST TO FIGHT A WAR WITH A STRONGER ENEMY, THAN A WEAKER FRIEND”
Somethings are unpleasant but necessary!
— Tobi (@Tobicods) April 6, 2024
This is very hard to swallow but I see it coming. Most Obidients will find it very difficult to accept considering the level of immoral involvement of El-Rufai especially in the Middle Belt.
— PETER OBI IS MY PRESIDENT (@itspauldaniels) April 6, 2024
Will Peter Obi be president?? I don’t care who is the vice
— K0KÖBuM✨ (@Merald__Ayomi) April 6, 2024
Despite these apprehensions, there’s a faction within Obi’s support base willing to overlook the vice-presidential pick in the broader interest of securing the presidency.
This speculative alliance underscores the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of Nigerian politics, as stakeholders seek strategic partnerships to enhance their electoral prospects.
Whether this rumoured alliance comes to fruition remains to be seen, but it certainly adds a layer of intrigue to the already complex fabric of Nigerian electoral politics.
